Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, then this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is just what you need! This dish is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re busy on a weeknight or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe shines in every occasion.

What makes this dish extra special is its versatility. It’s not only packed with wholesome ingredients but also allows you to easily switch things up based on what you have on hand. You’ll find that it’s great for meal prep too, making it an ideal choice when you want something tasty without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on your busiest nights.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: The sweet chili sauce paired with ground beef makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious Brussels sprouts and lean beef, this meal is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Versatile Options: You can easily alter ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—saving time without sacrificing flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delicious meal! You probably already have many of these staples in your kitchen.

For the Main Dish

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 pound shredded brussels sprouts
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1/2 of a lime (juiced)
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Variations

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more sriracha or even some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a meat-free version that’s still satisfying.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet. Crumble it up as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. The addition of green onions brings a fresh flavor right from the start. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, sriracha, and soy sauce—these ingredients create a wonderful flavor base. Once cooked through, remove it from the skillet onto a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add avocado oil and toss in those bright green brussels sprouts. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Sautéing until they are soft and caramelized is essential; this step enhances their natural sweetness while creating lovely golden edges.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything back together! Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir well so everything gets nicely coated in that delicious sauce—the combination of flavors will make your mouth water!

Step 4: Serve

Top your creation with sesame seeds if you wish! This dish pairs beautifully over rice or any of your favorite grains. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal that’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking doesn’t have to be stressful, and with a few handy tips, you can make this dish even more enjoyable!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef helps reduce the overall fat content, making the dish healthier while still being packed with flavor.

• Don’t skip the sautéing: Sautéing the brussels sprouts until they are caramelized brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• Adjust the spice level: If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to skip the sriracha or reduce the amount. Conversely, if you love it spicy, add more to suit your taste!

• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to swap out sweet chili sauce for teriyaki or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile. This will keep your meals exciting and fresh!

• Meal prep for busy days: Prepare extra servings and store them in airtight containers. This way, you’ll have quick and easy meals ready to go during your busy week.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present it when serving.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a refreshing touch that enhances the overall taste while adding a pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the sweet chili sauce, making each bite satisfying.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the savory beef and brussels sprouts.

• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory elements of this dish.

• Garlic bok choy: Sautéed garlic bok choy adds an additional green element that is flavorful yet light, balancing out your meal nicely.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts will not only taste amazing but also look like a feast fit for any occasion! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish throughout the week. You can easily make a big batch and store it for quick meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to consume the leftovers within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave; just cover it loosely and heat until warm.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this dish, here are some common questions answered!

Can I use other vegetables with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and variety.

How long does it take to cook Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick dinner option.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You could also serve it over a bed of leafy greens for a lighter option!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts are excellent for meal prep since they store well in the fridge and freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in cooking this delightful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe! With its perfect blend of flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try! Happy cooking!